Call of the Dragon (Return to Avalore Book 1) by Elianne Adams Page A

pulling at her, compelling her.
    She struggled not to laugh at his outrageous behavior. “Sorry, Drake, but it won’t work with me.” She scooted a little further. “Remember what happened yesterday? We’re going to have to get moving soon and I need you to be strong when we do.”
    His eyes sharpened for a moment as he considered what she said before glazing over again. “I understand. Please, come closer. I’ll be on my best behavior.” The glint in his eye told another story.
    She didn’t get closer. If he got his hands on her again, she didn’t know if she’d be strong enough to push him away again. She’d been dreaming of him for too long to not want what he was offering. Her heart still pounded in her chest.
    “I’ll tell you what, Romeo, once you get yourself better, I’ll let you have your kiss.”
    “You give me your word?”
    She was willing to promise just about anything. It wasn’t like he’d remember any of this later anyway. She, on the other hand, would never forget. She’d remember the way his mouth and hands had set her on fire. If his kiss melted her when he was sick, she’d be a goner if he did it when he wasn’t.
    “Yes, I promise, now rest.”
    “I’ll look forward to it.” The words drifted into her mind as his eyes closed again.
    Once he was asleep again, she left to fetch her damp clothes and found the laundry before jumping in the shower. No more than thirty minutes had elapsed by the time she slipped into her still warm from the dryer jeans and t-shirt, and went back to check on him.
    He hadn’t moved or even opened his eyes since she’d left him. Her hand fluttered to his forehead for the third time in the past half hour. She knew it would be hot, but she checked just the same.
    What was taking them so long? It was morning already. As much as she’d wanted time before having to meet her brothers, she wanted Drake healthy more. She was willing to face an army if it meant he’d get the help he needed.
    “You’ve done a wonderful job. You can stop pacing. Evan nears.” His tired voice slid into her mind.
    “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb you .” Her heart raced in her chest.
    Drake’s eyes snapped open. “ You didn’t. They’re here. ”
    As if on cue, a loud pounding at the door had her jumping out of her skin.
    “ I’m ready if you are.” She squared her shoulders and tilted her chin up putting up a brave front though inside she quivered like a leaf in the breeze. She took one last deep breath before turning the deadbolt.
    “They’ll adore you. Now, open the door. Evan is screaming at me and will break the door down if you don’t open it.” His voice was teasing, but she knew he wasn’t kidding. Her heart pounded and her palms grew damp as she turned the knob, opening the door wide. She fought the urge to bolt as she stepped aside. They all stood and stared at one another for long moments until she started fidgeting with the hem of the t-shirt.
    The taller of the two men spoke first. “Rhiannon, I’m Evan and this is Aiken. We’re so pleased to finally meet you.”
    Though he seemed calm as could be, the slight tension in his voice told her he was at least a little nervous too.
    She swallowed hard. “I’d like to say I’ve been looking forward to meeting you, but to be honest, I didn’t know you existed until yesterday. I’m still not convinced I am who you all seem to think I am.” She twisted her hands, then brought them to her sides to keep from fidgeting. “I know you probably have a million questions, but Drake’s in bad shape. I’ve done all I could, but he’s still very sick.”
    She turned towards the room. She could curse herself for being a coward later, but right now, she just wanted to be close to Drake.
    He was just as she’d left him. Strain showed in the deep lines of his handsome face. Sweat beaded on his skin as he endured his pain in silence.
    “How long has he been in this state?” Aiken strode to the